On February 1st, Austin businesses affected by the Universal Recycling Ordinance (URO), including office, multi-family, and industrial buildings, will be required to submit an Annual Diversion Plan.

This yearly plan helps businesses comply with policy requirements and can lessen trash bills through increased recycling. It details a property's on site recycling programs, types of materials diverted from landfills, and staff education efforts being made.

This year, food-permitted businesses of 15,000 sq. ft. or more will need to also submit an Organics Diversion Plan detailing ways food and food scraps are being diverted. With city encouragement, food donations to feed our community are suggested before composting.

The City of Austin Resource Recovery Department offers free assistance for plan(s) submittal to businesses expected to meet these requirements.